Etiology of unilateral vocal cord paralysis: A 16-year retrospective review

Abstract

Introduction: Vocal fold paralysis is a common clinical entity. Vocal fold immobility is defined as the restriction of movement of the vocal folds secondary to neuropathy or mechanical fixation. Neurogenic immobility may result from damage to the vagus and recurrent laryngeal nerve. Unilateral vocal cord paralysis (UVCP) is a highly variable clinical entity that warrants a thorough evaluation to assess the functional status of the larynx and to determine the etiology. Vocal fold paralysis is a sign of an underlying disease, not a disease in itself, and finding its etiology determines its prognosis and management options. Aims and Objectives: To study the etiology of unilateral vocal cord paralysis in patients in a tertiary referral centre Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted in a tertiary referral center between January 2003 and December 2019. A retrospective review of the case records of all patients diagnosed with UVCP who presented to us was carried out. A total of 435 cases who met the inclusion criteria were considered. The etiology of UVCP was determined using history, examination and appropriately directed investigations. Observation and Results: The most common identifiable cause of UVCP in our study was found to be surgical trauma, followed by non laryngeal malignancies. Conclusion: Though surgical trauma has been found to be the most common etiological factor in UVCP, a large proportion of patients had idiopathic UVCP and further research as to the pathophysiology of these cases is warranted.